You can buy tea with EBT, according to the USDA, which oversees the SNAP program. This includes both hot and iced tea, as long as it’s not alcoholic or intended for immediate consumption at the store.
However, not all teas are eligible. Tea marketed as a dietary supplement or weight loss aid may not be allowed. Ready-to-drink tea in the refrigerated section might also be ineligible if it’s meant for immediate consumption. But tea sold unrefrigerated for home use should be fine.
Eligibility for Purchasing Tea with EBT
You can buy tea with EBT benefits, including brands like Bigelow, Celestial Seasonings, Lipton, Harney & Sons, and Taylors of Harrogate. Bottled iced teas, such as Pure Leaf, Honest Tea, and Bai, are also eligible.
However, tea accessories like teapots and infusers cannot be purchased with EBT benefits.
Steps to Buy Tea with EBT
Buying tea with EBT is a simple process. Here are the steps to follow:
- Check if the store accepts EBT: Not all stores accept EBT, so it’s important to check before you go shopping. You can find out if a store accepts EBT by looking for the Quest® logo or by contacting your local SNAP office.
- Find eligible tea products: The USDA allows for the purchase of certain food and beverage items with EBT, including tea. You can buy hot or iced tea as long as it is non-alcoholic and intended for human consumption. Tea accessories such as teapots and infusers are not eligible for purchase with EBT.
- Check your EBT balance: Before you go shopping, make sure to check your EBT balance. You can do this by calling the number on the back of your EBT card or by checking your balance online.
- Purchase the tea: Once you have found an eligible tea product and confirmed that the store accepts EBT, you can purchase the tea by swiping your EBT card and entering your PIN. Remember to check your receipt to make sure the correct amount was deducted from your EBT balance.
FAQs on Tea and EBT
Here are some frequently asked questions about purchasing tea with EBT benefits:
Is it possible to buy tea with EBT benefits?
Yes, it is possible to buy tea with EBT benefits. The USDA allows for the purchase of certain food and beverage items, and tea falls under this category. This includes both hot and iced tea, as long as it doesn’t contain alcohol or is not intended for immediate consumption at the store.
What types of tea can be purchased using EBT benefits?
The type of tea that can be purchased using EBT benefits may be restricted based on the classification of the tea as a food item or beverage. Herbal teas are generally considered EBT eligible as they are classified as a food item rather than a beverage. However, some types of tea may not be eligible for purchase using EBT benefits. It is always best to check with your local EBT office or the USDA website for more information.
Can tea bags be purchased using EBT benefits?
Yes, tea bags can be purchased using EBT benefits. Tea bags are considered a food item rather than a beverage, and therefore, are eligible for purchase using EBT benefits.
Can tea be purchased using EBT benefits at all stores?
No, not all stores accept EBT benefits. It is important to check with your local store to see if they accept EBT benefits before attempting to make a purchase with your EBT card.
Can EBT benefits be used to purchase tea at restaurants?
No, EBT benefits cannot be used to purchase tea at restaurants. EBT benefits can only be used to purchase food items that are intended for home consumption.
To learn more about the range of items you can purchase with an EBT card please refer to our comprehensive guide ‘What You Can Buy with EBT’. This guide offers valuable insights into the types of products eligible for EBT purchases.